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Unlike most passes through the Sierra which named for an individual, "tioga" is an Iroquois word, meaning "where it forks" or "swift current". However, Tioga County, New York is the namesake for the lake.[1] The area is believed to have been settled as early as 10,000 years ago by Californiaindigenous peoples. John Muir was among the first Americans to see the area. The next major interest came from the mining and logging industries.

The lake offers spectacular views, as well as trout fishing, a picnic area, and a 13-site managed campground. Some of the wildlife in the area are brave enough to approach humans, especially birds and marmots. Occasionally a bobcat or bighorn sheep can be seen, although the latter are particularly shy.

Tioga Lake in Spring looking towards Tioga Pass

Although Tioga Lake is technically outside the borders of Yosemite, many consider it a part of the park because of the lush topography. This is especially in contrast to the desert below, surrounding the Mono Lake area, US 395 and the eastern Sierra Nevada. While the region has a stark beauty, this is far less popular than Yosemite Valley, mostly because of the added distance to most of California.

Because of the inaccessibility,[dubious– discuss] the region and Tioga Lake itself is most popular with campers who want to avoid the crowds of Yosemite, photographers, anglers, and nature lovers in general. Birds of prey are more common here, making Tioga Lake and its surroundings popular especially with bird watchers. Because of the altitude and location at the crest of a major pass, the weather is extremely unpredictable, and the length of the seasons varies from year to year.